Zakynthos

One of the best dive sites in Greece can't forget to mention Zakynthos. The turquoise waters around crab claw-shaped Zakynthos make it the go-to diving destination of the Ionian Islands. Base yourself in Zakynthos Town, the island’s capital, which has a showstopper of a waterfront and is overlooked by the remains of a Venetian fortress. Gerakas Beach, at the tip of the Vasilikos peninsula, is where endangered loggerhead turtles (also known as Caretta) come to lay their eggs during the breeding season (May to October) and is part of a National Marine Park covering the Bay of Laganas and stretching out to the Strofades, two small islands 50 nautical miles south of Zakynthos.

As well as turtles, visitors also have the chance to spot rare Mediterranean monk seals here. The coast surrounding the quiet village of Keri is home to at least a dozen dive sites, ranging from vertiginous wall dives plastered in marine life to deep caves where giant shrimps, octopus, and slipper lobsters lurk in dark crevices. Marathonisi, an islet just off the southern coast of Zakynthos, offers crystal-clear waters that make it another great spot for both diving and snorkeling.

Location: Ionian Island, Greece